Knockout

06.18.12

John McCain: Boxing ‘Corrupt’

Jacquelyn Martin / AP Photo

Sen. John McCain has proposed new legislation that would create a United States Boxing Commission. McCain claimed that boxing is currently “plagued” by “fraud, corruption, and ineffective regulation,” and pointed out that “professional boxing remains the only major sport in the United States that does not have a strong, centralized association, league, or other regulatory body to establish and enforce uniform rules and practices.” The move was partially spurred by a recent boxing decision that saw champion Manny Pacquiao lose in a controversial ruling. The new commission would have the power to license boxers, managers, and boxing organizations, appoint judges and referees, and implement new safety standards. McCain has proposed similar legislation before.